Colorectal Cancer: A Disease Lurking in the Large Bowel

To increase public and medical personnel awareness of non-communicable diseases that often go unnoticed, GWS Medika and Parkway Cancer Center (PCC) held a health talk event at the GWS Medika Blok M Medical Center.

This event, which focused on colorectal cancer, was held with speakers from Singapore—specialist doctors with experience in handling various complex cases in their country.

It is hoped that this health talk will not only broaden the participants' insight but also open up a discussion space on how the implementation of medical practices abroad can be adapted in Indonesia.

Colorectal cancer: a disease lurking in the large bowel

This health talk highlights colorectal cancer, one of the most common types of cancer in Southeast Asia, but it is often detected late.

Dr. Zee Ying Kiat, a general medical oncologist from Parkway Cancer Centre, Singapore, opened the discussion with an explanation of colorectal cancer—how it develops, who is at risk, the symptoms that are often overlooked, and various types of treatment that can be performed. He specializes in treating cancers of the gastroesophageal, hepatobiliary, pancreatic, and colorectal systems.

Colorectal cancer often comes on silently. Many patients only come to the fore when it is already in an advanced stage. Therefore, according to Dr. Zee, early detection is the most crucial step in reducing the death rate from this cancer.

"Treatment is dependent on cancer site, stage and patient's overall health," he added.

In the next session, Dr. Lee Kuok Chung, a general surgeon at Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore who specializes in oncologic colorectal surgery as well as advanced laparoscopic and robotic procedures, discussed how lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. 

This included the importance of regular screening, dietary changes, and physical activity. Additionally, Dr. Lee shared his experiences with technological advances in colorectal surgery and discussed how minimally invasive techniques can help patients recover more quickly with fewer complications.

This event was also part of the Continuing Medical Education (CME) program, which aimed to enhance the capabilities of the GWS Medika medical team, particularly in understanding the approach to managing colorectal cancer cases employed in other countries.

It is hoped that the insights and experiences shared will serve as an inspiration for medical practice in the country, while also considering local conditions.

Strategic location, limited participants

This health talk event took place at the GWS Medika Blok M Medical Center, located in the Menara Sentraya building.

Participants included the GWS Medika medical team and tenants of the building, comprising professionals and representatives of companies based in the Menara Sentraya office area.

With an exclusive face-to-face format, participants had the opportunity for direct dialogue with the speakers. This was an added value, especially in deepening our understanding of current health issues.

Uniting education and action

GWS Medika and Parkway Cancer Centre hope that this session will reinforce the importance of early detection, continued education, and lifestyle changes as the main pillars in preventing serious diseases.

This event offers doctors and medical personnel the opportunity to expand their knowledge through direct exposure to international experts. Thus, collaboration between countries in the health sector is not just a discourse, but is truly part of the solution to providing good services to the community.

About GWS Medika

GWS Medika now has seven clinics strategically positioned around Jakarta, consisting of five primary clinics and two medical centers in Blok M and Permata Hijau. These two medical centers offer comprehensive health services, ranging from general practitioner consultations to specialized care in cardiology, radiology, and dentistry.

Supported by modern facilities, GWS Medika offers a range of diagnostic services, including heart examinations using treadmills, ultrasound scans (USG), X-rays, and dental panoramic X-rays.

GWS Medika also provides vaccinations and medical check-ups (MCU) for individuals and companies, IV treatment, home service, and office visits throughout our clinic network.

Skin and aesthetic health services are available, especially at the GWS Medika Blok M Medical Center.

GWS Medika, a health clinic in Jakarta, is dedicated to delivering comfortable, reliable, and conveniently accessible healthcare services, both at the clinic and directly to your doorstep.